Cebu

Philippines

Cebu is the heart of the Philippines' Visayas region - a long island of dramatic landscapes, world-class diving, and warm hospitality. Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, dive with sardine schools in Moalboal, canyon through waterfalls, and hop to pristine islands. Historic Cebu City adds cultural depth to the adventure.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$200/day

Known For

cebuphilippinesvisayaswhale_sharksoslobmoalboalkawasan_fallsmagellancebu_cityboholisland_hoppingdivingsardine_runcanyoneeringmactanbantayanmalapascua

🇵🇭 Country Information: Philippines

CapitalManila
CurrencyPhilippine peso (₱)
Language Filipino (Tagalog) , English, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, Bicolano, Waray, Kapampangan, Pangasinan
Phone Code+63
Electricity220V (Type A, B, C)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (10
  • 15%), for hotel staff (50
  • 100 PHP), and for tour guides/drivers (100
  • 300 PHP per day)
  • Small tips for bellhops and porters are common

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are common in urban areas but less so in rural areas
  • Credit cards are accepted in major establishments but cash is preferred for smaller vendors and rural areas
  • It is generally better to bring a mix of cash and cards
  • There is no recognized black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Filipinos are generally polite and respectful, especially to elders
  • It is customary to use "po" and "opo" when speaking to elders or those in authority as a sign of respect
  • Removing shoes before entering someone's home is common
  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
  • Eating with hands (kamayan) is traditional for some dishes, but utensils are also widely used

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. The Philippines has a generally tolerant attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals, but same-sex marriage is not yet legal. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited in some local ordinances.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties including life imprisonment and the death penalty for drug offenses
  • Even small amounts of drugs can lead to harsh sentences

Special Laws

  • Jaywalking is strictly enforced in some cities and can result in fines
  • Vaping and e
  • cigarettes are regulated and restricted in public places
  • Photography of government or military installations may be restricted

Common Phrases

NoHindi (heen-dee) Hindi
YesOo (oh-oh) Oo
HelloKumusta (koo-moos-tah) Kumusta
PleasePaki (pah-kee) Paki
Excuse mePaumanhin (pah-oo-man-heen) Paumanhin
Thank youSalamat (sah-lah-mat) Salamat

Climate

Tropical climate with two seasons. Dry season January-May, wet season June-December. Less pronounced seasons than other Philippines areas. Protected by surrounding islands. Occasional typhoons July-December.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Lechon Cebu must_try

Cebu's famous roast pig is considered the best in the Philippines - crispy skin, moist meat, and unique herbal stuffing. Anthony Bourdain called it 't

Siomai must_try

Cebu-style steamed pork dumplings wrapped in wonton, often with chili garlic sauce. Street food staple found everywhere, especially near schools and m

Puso (Hanging Rice) must_try

Rice woven into palm leaf diamonds - Cebu's unique way of serving rice, perfect for lechon. Eaten with hands, the leaf keeps rice moist.

Sutukil must_try

Choose-your-seafood experience where fresh fish is prepared sugba (grilled), tuwa (soup), or kilaw (ceviche). Found at Mactan seafood markets.

Buwad (Dried Fish) local_favorite

Sun-dried salted fish, pungent and beloved. Buy from Taboan Market for the full sensory experience. Pairs with vinegar dipping sauce.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Thresher Shark Diving (Malapascua) tour_or_activity
Book 1-4 weeks in advance

Limited dive boats for 5am dives. Popular dive shops fill up, especially weekends.

Sinulog Festival Accommodation Accommodation
Book 2-6 months in advance

January festival brings millions. Hotels book out months ahead. Prices triple or more.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Kawasan Canyoneering tour_or_activity
Book 3-14 days in advance

Popular operators have limited daily capacity. Weekend slots fill quickly.

Fun Facts

Ready to explore Cebu?

Create a personalized day-by-day itinerary with AI

Start Planning Your Trip